MG set to launch Aussie-specific hybrid system
Super Hybrid will debut in HS before also being added to new QS SUVLook out Toyota RAV4! MG has developed a hybrid system claimed to be ultra-frugal and high-performance specifically for Australia that will be added to the new MG HS medium SUV line-up later this year.
Dubbed Super Hybrid, it is understood to be a form of plug-in hybrid with software tuning focussed on specific Australian driving needs.
As well as arriving in HS before the end of 2025, it is also scheduled to be added to the all-new seven-seat MG QS line-up in 2026.
The Aussie Super Hybrid system has been developed in a short timeframe by MG in China specifically at the request of MG Motors Australia and is currently undergoing final testing.
“Super-low fuel efficiency but with performance with it,” was how MGMA chief commercial officer Giles Belcher summarised the benefits of the new system.
“We are developing software to drive the cars that will be unique to Australia.
“It’s still being developed so I can’t really tell you too much, but we looked at the size of Australia and the way people drive or think they want to drive and we think there are different ways that technology can be used to assist in that.
“So, we are developing something unique that we think will be successful.”
Belcher dismissed the need for the Super Hybrid system so MG can undercut Australia’s new NVES CO2 reduction standard.
“NVES isn’t a big issue for us, we have modelled our mix of sales now and moving forward and we think we are okay moving forward,” he said.
Belcher was speaking on the sidelines of the Melbourne motor show where MG showed six incoming new models, including the orthodox HS Hybrid+ that will beat the Super Hybrid on-sale here and the all-new QS.
The QS will initially go on-sale this year in Australia only with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine.
Other new models on the stand in Melbourne were the MG U9 ute making its global debut, the MG S5 compact electric SUV and the luxury IM Motors IM5 and IM6.
Belcher was reticent to discuss Super Hybrid technical details, only saying it “won’t be a traditional plug-in hybrid”.
In the UK the new-generation HS comes as the orthodox plugless Hybrid+ and as a PHEV that combines a 1.5-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine with a front-mounted e-motor and a 24.7kWh battery pack.
Claimed combined outputs are 220kW/350Nm, a wholly ridiculous 0.8L/100km fuel consumption average, a 120km EV range and a 6.8 seconds 0-100km/h time.
But based on what Belcher’s saying, at least some parts of what Australia gets – at least the software – is different.
He said the unique tune was made possible because of the importance MG placed in Australia as an export market.
“They are always asking for feedback on different things. And [MGMA CEO Peter Ciao] came up with this idea for a different technology and spoke to them and they were super-supportive.
“Almost instantly they started working on it.
“We have tested it here and sent back some feedback and they are just refining it as they go.
“The speed of what they can do and the resources they have is amazing, so that’s why we have it in such a short amount of time.”
Related: MG ZS Essence 2025 Review
Related: 2025 MG S5 EV details spilt
Related: MG locks in luxury IM Motors brand for Australia
Related: All-new 2026 MG4 outed
Join the conversation at our Facebook page
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au
Or email us at editor@carsales.com.au
Tags
Please see our Editorial Guidelines & Code of Ethics (including for more information about sponsored content and paid events). The information published on this website is of a general nature only and doesn’t consider your particular circumstances or needs.
